Ruck on what she hopes to accomplish in the next decade: “I aspire to play a significant role in shaping the field of synthetic organic chemistry, both scientifically and culturally. I intend to leverage my position at Merck Process to help continue to push back the frontiers of science—designing new reactions to synthesize complex drug molecules—and serve as a leader in fostering a chemistry community in which innovation is fueled by diversity and my commitment to women in chemistry transforms known challenges into opportunities.”

What her colleagues say: “Rebecca has demonstrated a strong and unwavering interest in the development and promotion of women in chemistry. As such she has sponsored, initiated, and participated in many activities aimed at stimulating interest in the field and promoting professional development of those who have chosen chemistry as an educational and/or career path.”—Michael H. Kress, Merck Research Laboratories